Etta J Hillman

Etta Jane Hillman, 92, of Tucson, Arizona entered into eternal life on June 7, 2023. She was the youngest of 4 children born in San Antonio, Texas February 18, 1931 to Robert Simmons Cobb and Emma (Tkadlec) Cobb.

Etta Jane Hillman is preceded in death by her parents Robert Simmons Cobb and Emma (Tkadlec) Cobb, her siblings Mary Ackermann, Lottie Linville, Robert S. Cobb Jr., and grandson Elijah Hillman.

Etta Jane Hillman, the most loving and devoted mother and grandmother leaves behind her 4 children: John “Jay” R. (Annette) Hillman, Michael L. (Michelle) Hillman, Patricia S. Hillman, Janet Gayle Hillman. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Mellissa (Brandon) Williams, Cassandra Sandiford, Joshua Hillman, Aaron Hillman, Emma (Bobby) Hughes, and her great grandchildren Logan, William, Elena, Ryan and Noah.

To her family, she was affectionately known as Sis. Her formative years were spent at her parent’s dairy farm on Goliad Road in San Antonio, Texas. There she was always seen playing with her dogs and riding her horses. She graduated from Hot Wells High School in 1948.

Later, she married John Nolan Hillman. Nolan was serving in the United States US Air Force which allowed the family to travel to many places. Several of Nolan’s tours of duty were considered remote and lasted twelve months. As a family we would move back to Texas until he returned. In Texas, we lived in Schertz and Universal City. Etta Jane was a homemaker for much of her life but did work part-time as a food service worker for the Tucson Unified School District for several years.

Etta Jane was a beautiful person inside and out. She was so kind and compassionate. Etta Jane’s favorite activities was spending time with her family and her many dogs and horses. Her canine companions were very near and dear to her. She was an accomplished horseback rider and taught all her children to be confident riders as well. All of us participated in horse shows, parades, gymkhanas, and many, many trail rides. Compassion for all animals has always been important to her. Some of her favorite charities include: Humane Society of Southern Arizona, Pima Animal Care Center, Best Friends Animal Society, Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary, Jane Goodall Institute, and National Parks Conservation Association.

Another activity that was thoroughly enjoyed by Etta Jane was traveling in her RV! She travelled across the United States. Among her favorite destinations were Stow, Ohio, to visit her son Michael and the Redwoods National Park. When in Tucson, she could often be found camping on Mt. Lemmon at Spencer Campground with her friends and dogs.

A life with love is a life that has been lived. Your life was overflowing with love, so spread your wings and you are home now.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eastlawnpalmsmortuary.com for the Hillman family.